What Next-Generation Wi-Fi Models Could Mean for Secure Mobility

With the adoption of the Internet of Things and Internet of Everything, advances in mobility and next-generation Wi-Fi are driving faster speeds, higher signal quality and more reliable connectivity. With the upcoming ratification of the two waves of the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, how are emerging Wi-Fi models creating new security features that are defining the next-generation Wi-Fi experience?

Next Generation Wi-Fi Models

Migration to the 5 GHz-only 802.11ac is quickly becoming a reality. In a recent article by Lisa Phifer, Chris Spain, Vice President of Product Marketing for Cisco’s Wireless Networking Group, discusses more about how this migration will drive a shift in mobile device support for 5 GHz. “An increasing percentage of new mobile devices provide dual-band capability, and they generally prefer the less congested 5 GHz band,” Spain said. New Wi-Fi models, like those listed below, can help drive mobile devices to the 5GHz band:

Beamforming. It acts exactly like it sounds. Instead of a broadcasting a signal in a wide range, a signal can be targeted to a specific user or area. This type of Wi-Fi model can help improve wireless bandwidth utilization, and it can increase a wireless network’s range. In turn, beamforming can improve video streaming, voice quality, and other bandwidth- and latency-sensitive transmissions.

Wi-Fi Direct. This emerging technology works a lot like Bluetooth. Objects can be connected to each other to synchronize, print or share data, without connecting to a centralized repository of connectivity. Because you can use the controller to configure the Wi-Fi Direct Client Policy, on a per WLAN basis, or disable Wi-Fi Direct Client Policy altogether, this type of technology is a secure way to enable the Internet of Everything to connect more people, processes, data and things.

The Value of Secure Wi-Fi

As more people connect to both wired and wireless networks via smart phones, tablets and laptops, security will continue to be a top concern. As mobility trends such as the proliferation of devices and increased data and video traffic drive new expectations from networks, a strategic and architectural approach to secure mobility is essential.

When next-gen Wi-Fi can deliver faster speeds and media-rich publishing platforms, the future of mobility can be better realized. For example, new revenue generating opportunities such as location-based services and marketing information can be delivered in a controlled and opt-in environment. Some examples include:

Sensitive, real-time streaming information can be delivered to health professionals and first responders.

Sports fans can shop for merchandise from their seats knowing that their credit card information is secure.

Students studying at their local coffee shop can connect with their teachers and classmates, without having to sacrifice their afternoon latte.

This is the value of secure Wi-Fi, and increased mobility is making it possible. Be sure to download and read the Cisco 2013 Annual Security Report, which includes real-world data and analysis that can help you update and strengthen your security strategy.

How do you think mobility is driving the future of secure Wi-Fi networks? Let us know via comment below or join the conversation on Twitter, #CiscoMobility.

1 Comments.

Mobility is growing fast but the majority still see WLANs as complementary to wired network access, and this is because of some security issues. In my opinion, I think this will need 2 years more, by 2016, to consider Wi-Fi as an alternative to wired networks.
But also, I would like to mention that in the near future all will be wireless, so that companies should be prepared.

Some of the individuals posting to this site, including the moderators, work for Cisco Systems. Opinions expressed here and in any corresponding comments are the personal opinions of the original authors, not of Cisco. The content is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be an endorsement or representation by Cisco or any other party. This site is available to the public. No information you consider confidential should be posted to this site. By posting you agree to be solely responsible for the content of all information you contribute, link to, or otherwise upload to the Website and release Cisco from any liability related to your use of the Website. You also grant to Cisco a worldwide, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free and fully-paid, transferable (including rights to sublicense) right to exercise all copyright, publicity, and moral rights with respect to any original content you provide. The comments are moderated. Comments will appear as soon as they are approved by the moderator.